Wildlife Watching in Burkina Faso: A Lesser-Known Safari Destination

Situated in the heart of West Africa, Burkina Faso may not be the first country that pops to mind when considering a wildlife safari. However, the landlocked country offers a one-and-only experience for fauna enthusiasts. From the abundant national parks to the rich cultural heritage, Burkina Faso is a hidden treasure that awaits exploration. The detailed guide below will provide all the necessary information for you to plan an amazing fauna-watching experience in Burkina Faso.

Introduction to Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper Volta, is located in West Africa. The tropical country is surrounded by Mali in the north, Niger in the east, Benin in the southeast, Togo and Ghana in the south, and Ivory Coast in the southwest. The name of the country means “Land of Upright People,” reflecting the ethical values of the local residents.

Climate

Burkina Faso has a tropical climate manifested by two distinctive seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season is from November to May and is characterized by hot and arid winds with cooler nights. The rainy period occurs between June and October and is marked by heavy rainfall and lush greens. The country’s landscape is varied with savannas and grass cover, forests and canopy, and river drainage. Such diversity provides habitats for a rich fauna that represents an attractive option for a wildlife-watching festival.

National Parks and Wildlife Reservations

Arly National Park

Arly National Park is located in the southeastern part of the country, joining the W-Arly-Pendjari complex with Benin and Niger. The park is famous for its numerous ecosystems, including savanna, forest, and wetland, showcasing the rich diversity of African wildlife. If you’re looking to explore more iconic parks across Africa, consider destinations like those mentioned in From Serengeti to Zanzibar.

Wildlife:

• Elephants: The park has a large number of elephants that can be spotted near the water bodies.
• Lions and Leopards: Recovering numbers of prides of lions can also be sighted, as well as leopards on game drives.
• Birds: More than 200 species of birds call this park home, making it a haven for bird watchers. Look for Abyssinian ground hornbill or white-throated francolin.

Activities:

• Game Drives: Get close to nature under the guidance of expert rangers and have a chance of seeing wildlife up close.
• Bird Watching: Take a tour with birdwatchers and learn more about the fascinating species that inhabit this park.
• Guided Walks: Experience the park at a more intimate level, hiking with a trained guide who can share insights about the magnificent plant and animal life.

W National Park

The WAP Complex encompasses Burkina Faso, Benin, and Niger, with the bulk of it situated in Burkina Faso. The park gets its name from the W-shaped curves of the Niger River as it winds through the area, creating habitats for hippos, crocodiles, and other river-dependent animals. This interplay of land and water is reminiscent of the intricate waterways found in the Okavango Delta, one of the most stunning wetlands in Africa.

Wildlife:

• Buffaloes and Antelopes: Large herds of buffaloes and various species of antelope such as Roan antelope.
• Niger River: Hippos and crocodiles are common sightings along the river.
• Primates: Olive baboons, patas monkeys, and green monkeys are commonly seen in the park.

Activities:

• Boat Safaris: Explore the Niger River on a boat safari to spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
• Game Drives: Guided game drives offer the opportunity to see many mammals.
• Cultural Excursions: Visit nearby villages to learn about local culture and traditions.

Nazinga Game Ranch

Nazinga Game Ranch is a protected area in south-central Burkina Faso, noted for its wildlife conservation efforts.

Wildlife:

• Elephants: The ranch is home to over 800 elephants.
• Ungulates: Bushbucks, warthogs, and hartebeests are frequently seen.
• Bird Life: The ranch is teeming with bird life such as the Senegal parrot and African fish eagle.

Activities:

• Game Drives: Get up close with elephants and other wildlife on a guided game drive.
• Walking Safaris: Explore the ecosystem on foot with a guide to discover its creatures.
• Conservation Tours: Learn about the ranch’s conservation efforts and participate in preserving native species.

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (from November to May) is the best time to visit Burkina Faso for wildlife viewing. Animals gather around water holes during this time, making them more visible. Additionally, this period is less hot and humid than other months.

Getting There

• Air Travel: The primary international gateway to Burkina Faso is Ouagadougou Airport (OUA), with direct flights from major cities in Europe and other continents.
• Domestic Travel: Domestic flights, buses, and car rentals are available. Access roads to parks may vary in quality, so an AWD car is recommended.

Accommodation

• Luxury Lodges: Options like Campement de Nazinga offer modern amenities and guided tours.
• Mid-Range: Guesthouses and eco-lodges provide a balance of comfort and cost. For a broader range of accommodations, you can check out hotels available in the area.
• Budget: Campsites and basic stays are available for budget travelers.

Cultural Experiences

Local Communities

Engage with local communities to learn about their customs and way of life.

• Visit Local Villages: Discover traditional crafts, music, and dance. Engage with residents and learn about their daily lives.
• Crafts: Burkina Faso is known for its handicrafts such as baskets, leather goods, and pottery. Buy traditional items directly from craftsmen.

Festivals

Experience Burkinabe culture through festivals.

• FESPACO: A bi-annual event dedicated to African cinema, the biggest film festival on the continent.
• SIAO: The Ouagadougou International Art and Craft Fair showcases traditional and contemporary crafts from across Africa.

Preservation and Sustainability

Conservation Efforts

• Conservation Areas: National parks and game reserves manage wildlife habitats carefully.
• Community Integration: Local communities contribute to conservation and benefit from eco-tourism revenue.

Sustainable Tourism

• Eco-Lodges: Stay at sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations.
• Travel Responsibly: Follow guidelines to minimize waste and protect wildlife, and support local businesses.

Health and Safety

Health Precautions

Ensure vaccinations and health precautions are up-to-date before traveling. For detailed health recommendations, check out the CDC’s travel guide for Burkina Faso.

• Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid.
• Malaria Prevention: Malaria is prevalent; consult your physician for recommended antimalarial drugs.

Safety Tips

• Travel Advisories: Plan your trip using travel advisories and follow local officials’ directions.
• Safety Measures: Secure your valuables, avoid late-night walks, and stay alert.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other emergencies.

Itinerary Suggestions

Wildlife and Classic Safari (7 Days)

• Day 1: Arrive in Ouagadougou
• Day 2: Explore Ouagadougou, including the National Museum and local markets.
• Days 3-4: Transfer to Nazinga Game Ranch for game drives.
• Days 5-6: Enjoy a safari and bird-watching at Arly National Park.
• Day 7: Return to Ouagadougou and departure.

Cultural and Wildlife Experience (10 Days)

• Days 1-2: Ouagadougou city tour, including cultural sites and local galleries.
• Days 3-4: Travel to Bobo-Dioulasso to visit the Grand Mosque and Dioulassoba market.
• Days 5-6: Explore the Sindou Peaks and visit a Senoufo village.
• Days 7-8: Wildlife viewing and conservation programs at Nazinga Game Ranch.
• Days 9-10: Game drives and a boat safari at W National Park.

Conclusion

With its panoramic wildlife, rich history, and dedication to conservation, Burkina Faso offers a unique safari experience. Whether exploring the savannas of Arly National Park, watching elephants at Nazinga Game Ranch, or immersing in local culture, Burkina Faso promises an adventure like no other. Start planning your trip now and uncover the hidden gems of this lesser-known safari destination. For travelers curious about how Burkina Faso’s safari experience stacks up against other destinations, such as Botswana, you can check out this comparison.